| Plastics Characteristics Information |
Plastics are made from fossil fuels--petroleum, natural gas, coal--, wood and some plant materials, air, water and sometimes other common materials. They are designed in many different formulas for different purposes. There are two main types:
Thermoplastics soften when heated, harden when cooled, so caution is required in use. Examples are: Acrylic, Cellulosic, Nylon, Polyethylene, Polystyrene, Polypropylene, and Vinyl.
Thermosetting plastics are set into permanent shape with heat. They do not soften when reheated. Examples are: Phenolic, Melamine, Urea and Thermoset Polyester.
Properties of basic plastics resins can be changed by adding fillers, plasticizers, or stabilizers. Examples are: Polystyrene, which cracks easily, can be made to resist impact by addition of rubber modifiers; Polyester resin, reinforced with glass fibers, makes durable products such as shower stalls or boats.
Plastics may be shaped by molding, casting extrusion, calendaring, and foaming. Examples are as follows: Molded-dishes, furniture
Cast-furniture, cutlery handles Laminated-materials for counter tops, furniture Extruded-fibers Calendared-plastic film, plastic-coated fabric Foamed-upholstery foam, sponges This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus, with references from Ohio Extension bulletins Choosing and Using Microwave Utensils and Accessories and other Plastics handouts.
MSU 2003
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